The emu, the national bird of Australia, can grow 5 to 6 feet in height, making it the second largest bird behind the ostrich. Australia's Aboriginal tribes relied heavily on the emu, using the bird to provide clothing, food and shelter. Aborigines also used the emu for medicinal purposes, rendering the fat from its skin to produce emu oil for the treatment of damaged skin and fatigued muscles. Emu oil can be found in numerous lotions and creams designed to treat various joint and muscle problems.
Identification
Injury, trauma, overuse and tension are common causes of muscle pain. The discomfort may involve not only the muscles but the surrounding tendons, ligaments and soft tissues that connect muscles to bones. In most cases, the muscle pain will flare up during a strenuous activity or shortly after completing exercise or repeated movements. Prolonged muscle pain or fatigue may also be due to infection or certain medical conditions, like fibromyalgia.
Features
According to a study by Dr. Margaret C. Craig-Schmidt of Auburn University, emu oil owes its healing properties to its fatty acid composition, particularly its high levels of linolenic acid and oleic acid. An unsaturated fatty acid, linolenic acid eases joint pain. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that reduces inflammation in dermal tissue.
Function
Research conducted by Dr. Peter Ghosh at Royal North Shore Hospital of Sydney, Australia, and Dr. Michael Whitehouse at University of Adelaide, Australia, found emu oil's fatty acids also give it anti-inflammatory properties. Due to its fat content, emu oil serves to smooth and nourish the skin. When applied to injured muscles or sore joints, emu oil absorbs deep into the skin and fights pain and inflammation. Massaging emu oil into the affected area can alleviate discomfort, reduce swelling and help accelerate healing.
Types
A number of commercial manufacturers produce creams and lotions containing emu oil to help treat muscle pain. Some common brand names include Pure Emu Oil, 4 D Acres, High Cascade, and Longview Farms. Many manufacturers also produce emu oil products for pets. And due to its exceptional purity, emu oil also tests as hypoallergenic, making it a popular ingredient in many cosmetics.
Considerations
According to Drugs.com, the use of emu oil presents no harmful side effects or toxicity problems. Most topical emu oil products will recommend applying the oil to the sore muscles two to three times a day. Emu oil would not be a suitable treatment for vegans or those avoiding the use of animal products.
